Penulis: George C. Lambert

Heber Chase Kimball (1801–1868) stands as a significant figure in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Born in Sheldon, Vermont, Kimball found his spiritual path upon encountering the teachings of Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church. After his conversion in 1832, Kimball quickly ascended to a leadership position and became one of the original members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1835. His devout commitment and fervent missionary work were instrumental in spreading the Latter-day Saint movement both in the United States and abroad, particularly in England. Kimball”s contributions to the early church encompassed not only evangelical work but also settlement administration, as the Saints migrated westward. In addition to his ecclesiastical roles, Kimball assumed the office of Vice President in the provisional State of Deseret. He is best remembered for his unwavering loyalty to Joseph Smith and later to Brigham Young, under whose leadership he continued to serve as a First Counselor. His written legacy, “President Heber C. Kimball”s Journal”, provides invaluable insights into the early church”s challenges and its theological evolution. This publication has been a cornerstone resource for historians and scholars researching the Mormon exodus and early settlement in Utah. Kimball”s literary style reflects the didactic and anecdotal narration of his time, often interweaving personal experiences with doctrinal exposition. His writings remain a testament to the indelible mark he left on the religious landscape of the American West.